North Kesteven Council Ramps Up Enforcement Following Strike-down of Travellers' Appeals
A North Kesteven district council is set to take enforcement action following the dismissal of 17 appeals by travellers to remain on land off the A17. The appeals, which were lodged for a plot in Beckingham, have all been rejected on the grounds of location inappropriateness and potential harm to both public safety and the environment.
Details of the Proposed Stay
The travellers were seeking permission to utilise the land for pitches for both permanent and touring caravans, an amenity block, and parking facilities.
Ruling Against the Appeals
The requests were refuted by an independent planning inspector on September 26, citing poor design of the proposed pitches and likely damage to local features and biodiversity. "The area would become prone to noise and this could result in detrimental effects on the environment," the inspector voiced in her ruling.
Personal Circumstances Not Enough
Although consideration was given to the personal circumstances of the inhabitants, the inspector felt these did not outweigh the risks posed to the area.
Fate of the Appeals
North Kesteven District Council rejected the appeals in 2022 after recording more than 200 objections. It was noted that the encampment was causing intimidation amongst some residents of Beckingham, a matter which divided the local community.
Council Leader's Statement
Speaking in response to the ruling, Council Leader Richard Wright said, "We are pleased with the support from the independent Inspector in rejecting these appeals. We recognise our responsibility to make provisions for travellers but it should align with national and local policy. This was not the case here, and therefore, we resisted these proposals due to solid and stringent planning reasons," he clarified.
Action Against the Land
In the wake of the dismissals, the council has stated enforcement action against the land will recommence.